Public Statements

Sequestration

Floor Speech

These reckless cuts are affecting families and communities throughout our Nation and in Indian Country. When sequestration was passed, no one thought about how it would disproportionately impact tribal communities. Our Federal Government is failing in its obligation to tribal communities, and sequester has made the problem worse.

Right now, in Minnesota, Native American children are losing tutoring services and access to school counselors because of cuts to Impact Aid. Families that receive health care from the Indian Health Service are not protected from sequestration. The health and, in some cases, even the lives of tribal members are in danger.

This week, the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee will hear from tribal leaders. We will hear how Congress has an obligation and an opportunity to correct this wrong, and Congress must take action.